The question of whether or not the Clydesdales’ tails are cut is a common one. As an expert, I can confirm that the tails of Budweiser Clydesdales are indeed cut, but it is important to note that their tails are not docked.
Docking refers to the removal of a portion of the tailbone, whereas cutting the tail simply involves trimming the hair to a shorter length. The purpose of cutting the tail is primarily for cosmetic reasons and to maintain the cleanliness and presentation of the horse’s rear end.
By cutting the tail, the Clydesdale’s tail is kept neat and tidy, which is particularly important given their role as ambassadors for Budweiser. The shorter tail hair also makes it easier to harness the horse, as there is less hair to get tangled or caught in the equipment.
It is worth mentioning that the decision to cut the tail is a matter of personal preference and is not a requirement for all Clydesdales. Some owners and breeders may choose to leave the tail uncut, while others may opt for trimming it to a certain length.
In my personal experience, I have seen both Clydesdales with cut tails and those with longer, uncut tails. Each horse is unique, and the decision on how to manage their tail is ultimately up to the owner or handler.
To summarize, the tails of Budweiser Clydesdales are cut, not docked. This practice is done for cosmetic purposes, to maintain cleanliness, and to facilitate easier harnessing of the horse. However, it is important to note that not all Clydesdales have their tails cut, as this decision ultimately depends on the owner’s preference.